It’s no secret Jeep is preparing the next-generation of Wrangler due out for the 2018 model year. As such, the current Wrangler, well-known by its codename JK, has been receiving quite the number of special editions over the least few years. This one, however, is perhaps one of the best. It’s called the Recon and it’s only available with the Rubicon trim. But this isn’t just an appearance package – no, the Rubicon Recon comes with an upgraded front axle, new rock rails, and heavy-duty differential covers.

Those familiar with the Wrangler Rubicon know just how capable it comes from the factory. Even without the Recon upgrades, the Wrangler Rubicon comes with Dana 44 axles front and rear with locking differentials, Jeep’s Rock-Trac manual transfer case with its 4:1 crawl ratio, the electronically disconnecting front sway bar, and its beefy BFGoodrich KM off-road tires.

The handful of modifications Jeep includes within the Recon package only furthers the Wrangler’s dominance over lesser SUVs when it comes to off-roading. Jeep boss Mike Manley had this to say:

“With an array of beefed up off-road components, the new Rubicon Recon provides even more legendary Jeep Wrangler capability. With unmatched capability and a unique appearance, Rubicon Recon is the perfect Wrangler for our most loyal, diehard off-road enthusiasts who love to tackle the most demanding trails.”

Manley is certainly right about Jeep having loyal fans. The Wrangler has soared in popularity since the introduction of the four-door Wrangler Unlimited in 2007. Now as Jeep prepares to debut its all-new 2018 Wrangler JL, those on the fence about purchasing a JK Wrangler will have an even more difficult decision to face.

The 2017 Jeep Wrangler Recon goes on sale in late February 2017 with a starting price of $39,145 for the two-door model and $42,945 for the four-door Wrangler Unlimited.

Let’s check out what Jeep includes in this special edition Wrangler Rubicon.

Continue reading to learn more about the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon.

What makes the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon

Jeep didn’t just add some graphics, wheels, and a special edition badge to this Wrangler; far from it, in fact. This Wrangler has both cosmetic and mechanical upgrades that give it an edge when the trail turns rough.

Mechanically, the Dana 44 front axle now has stronger housing tubes and heavy-duty forgings that will better withstand the impacts found on rough terrain and the added stress of larger tires. It also features an upgraded, heavy-duty front differential cover made from cast steel. The rear axle also sports the same differential cover upgrade.

While the Rubicon already comes with rock rails designed to protect the rocker panel from trail impacts, the Rubicon Recon has new rock rails that extend further past the doors to better protection and to act as a step. Perforated steel plates help grip shoes as occupants enter and exit the Jeep. What’s more, the rock rails are shorter in length than the standard Rubicon rock rails, giving room for larger tires sized up to 35 inches in diameter. That’s huge for those planning on aftermarket wheels and tires.

Speaking of wheels, the Rubicon Recon comes with new, five-spoke, 17-inch aluminum wheels coated with Low Gloss Granite Crystal paint. They are wrapped in the Rubicon’s standard 32-inch BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM tires.

As for the cosmetic upgrades, that same Low Gloss Granite Crystal paint color is found on the grille inserts and headlight rings. A matte black grille matches the low-gloss front bumper. Matte black graphics on the heat-reduction hood give the Jeep a unique flair. The Rubicon Recon can be had in one of seven colors. They include Black, Bright White, Billet Silver, Firecracker Red, Gobi, Rhino, and Granite Crystal.

Other notable features include the front and rear bumpers. The front bumper has been seen on other Wrangler special editions, including the Rubicon Hard Rock. It is winch-capable, meaning with a Mopar winch mounting bracket, an electric recovery winch will fit neatly inside. Red tow hooks provide easy recovery points. The end caps are also removable with a few hex bolts, making giving the Wrangler’s tires unobstructed access to taller obstacles.

The rear bumper also features two red tow hooks, along with a center step for easy access to the cargo area. An access hole on the right hand side allows for a frame-mounted Mopar spare tire carrier to be installed. These frame-mounted carriers are used when oversized tires are added, which would overstress the tailgate hinges.

Jeep didn’t forget about the Wrangler Rubicon Recon’s interior, either. It features unique red contrast stitching and red cargo netting on the door panels and center console. Matching red seatbelts further accentuate the cabin. What’s more, Jeep has introduced a new gauge cluster, which includes an upgraded driver information center. The larger screen now shows a digital speedometer, individual tire pressure, oil pressure, transmission and coolant temperatures, among other vitals. This upgrade has been needed for a long time. The Wrangler’s gauge cluster has been around since 2012 and already looks a decade old.

As for option packages, the Rubicon Recon comes standard with the Jeep Connectivity Group, Power Convenience Group, Satellite Radio, remote start, and auto temperature controls. And as mentioned above, the two-door version starts at $39,145, while the four-door starts at $42,945.